After an arduous, litigious approval process, the controversial Berwyn Square project is now in the hands of a new developer, writes Caroline O’Halloran for SAVVY Main Line.

Homebuilder Todd Pohlig and developer David Della Porta sold their interest in the mixed-use project to Jason Dempsey last fall. The business partners were not looking to sell but were approached by Dempsey, who is in the process of developing the giant apartment complex next to the Berwyn Tavern.

“The seven-foot height variance initially appealed by neighbors was eventually upheld by Chester County Court,” said Pohlig. “However, when neighbors appealed that decision, we were facing another substantial delay: another few years in the court system. Jason Dempsey approached us indicating he could make the project work at three stories.”

This scaling down got the approval for the project by Easttown Supervisors.

Dempsey will have to develop the project according to the new plan that includes more traditional architecture, 107 units, and minimal ground-floor retail.

A retail component of the plan, Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream, is also being dropped. It will instead relocate to the former Yang’s Market space across the street in the spring.

Read more about Berwyn Square at SAVVY Main Line.